2025 Christmas Market Cruise from Prague to Berlin- Hosted by Jeff and Gina

Our journey beings in the vibrant city of Prague where history and charm intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Prague at Christmas is like stepping into a fairytale, with its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and Gothic spires all aglow under twinkling holiday lights. The city’s famous Christmas markets, particularly those in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, attract visitors from around the world, offering Czech holiday delicacies like trdelník (a sweet, cinnamon-sugar pastry), roasted ham, and warm mulled wine. In Old Town Square, a towering Christmas tree stands in front of the Astronomical Clock, surrounded by festive stalls filled with handmade ornaments, toys, and traditional Czech crafts. Carolers sing beneath the grand spires of Týn Church, while horse-drawn carriages add a charming touch as they clop along the city’s ancient streets. The scent of roasting chestnuts and holiday treats fills the air, and Prague Castle, illuminated in the distance, adds to the enchantment. The city’s mix of historical beauty and festive cheer creates an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and magical, making Prague at Christmas truly unforgettable.

Melník and Litoměřice at Christmas offer a picturesque holiday experience filled with traditional Czech charm and warmth. In Melník, the town’s historic center comes alive with festive lights and decorations, with its iconic castle overlooking the confluence of the Labe and Vltava rivers adding a romantic touch to the winter scenery. A cozy Christmas market takes place in the town square, where visitors can savor Czech holiday treats like vánočka (a sweet braided bread), honey cakes, and mulled wine, while shopping for handmade gifts and ornaments. Just a short distance away, the medieval town of Litoměřice also celebrates the season with its own Christmas market set against the backdrop of stunning baroque and Gothic architecture. The square is illuminated by a grand Christmas tree, and locals gather to sing carols and enjoy traditional music. Both towns share an intimate, festive atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets, quaint shops, and welcoming cafes inviting visitors to warm up and soak in the holiday spirit.

Bad Schandau is a scenic spa town located in Saxony, Germany, right along the Elbe River and at the gateway to the striking Saxon Switzerland National Park. Known for its therapeutic mineral springs and wellness-focused atmosphere, Bad Schandau has attracted visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty for centuries. The town’s historic charm is evident in its traditional half-timbered houses, cozy cafes, and elegant spa hotels. Highlights include the Toskana Therme, a modern thermal bath complex where guests can enjoy various pools and treatments, and the iconic Bad Schandau Elevator, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Elbe Valley. This town is also a perfect base for outdoor activities, with easy access to hiking trails, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations within the national park. Bad Schandau is a peaceful retreat where visitors can rejuvenate while enjoying the timeless landscapes of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

Dresden at Christmas is a magical experience that captures the spirit of the holiday season with its enchanting blend of tradition, lights, and festive atmosphere. The city’s famous Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets dating back to 1434, is the heart of the celebration. Located in the historic Altmarkt square, the market glows with twinkling lights and colorful decorations, offering traditional crafts, mulled wine, and the famous Dresdner Christstollen—a rich fruit bread that’s a must-try treat. Stalls are filled with handmade ornaments, nutcrackers, and wooden toys from the nearby Ore Mountains, giving visitors a chance to bring a piece of Saxon craftsmanship home. Carolers and brass bands fill the air with holiday music, while the Elbe River and baroque architecture provide a picturesque winter backdrop. The entire city comes alive with the warmth and joy of Christmas, making Dresden a truly enchanting holiday destination.

Meine, a small town in Lower Saxony, transforms into a cozy, festive haven during Christmas. The local community comes together to create a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere, with houses and streets beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and seasonal wreaths. A small Christmas market typically takes place in the town center, where local artisans display handcrafted items, from ornaments and wooden toys to knitted scarves and holiday treats. The aroma of baked goods, roasted nuts, and mulled wine fills the crisp winter air, inviting residents and visitors alike to stroll through the market stalls. Local choirs and musicians perform carols, adding to the town’s peaceful and charming ambiance. In Meine, Christmas is a heartfelt, community-focused celebration that brings neighbors together to enjoy simple holiday pleasures, creating a festive season filled with warmth and cheer.

Magdeburg at Christmas is a delightful mix of historical charm and festive cheer. The city’s Christmas market, set in the old town and illuminated by thousands of lights, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. Stalls filled with handmade crafts, holiday sweets, and warm mulled wine line the streets, while the aroma of roasted nuts and gingerbread fills the air. Dominating the scene is the stunning Magdeburg Cathedral, its gothic architecture providing a breathtaking backdrop to the festive celebrations. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree stands tall in the center of the market, surrounded by carolers and musicians performing traditional holiday songs. Families and friends gather around cozy fire pits, and children enjoy rides and games at the fairground nearby. With its historic sites, river views, and joyful atmosphere, Magdeburg offers a Christmas experience that feels both grand and inviting, capturing the warmth and wonder of the season.

Genthin and Potsdam at Christmas each offer their own unique take on the holiday season, blending local charm with festive traditions. Genthin, a quaint town known for its canals and picturesque countryside, transforms into a cozy holiday retreat during Christmas. Small Christmas markets pop up around town, where local artisans sell handmade crafts, and the air is filled with the scents of spiced treats and mulled wine. The town’s quiet, intimate setting makes it an ideal spot for enjoying a peaceful holiday experience, away from the hustle and bustle. Meanwhile, Potsdam dazzles with its grand Christmas market set against the backdrop of the city’s magnificent palaces and historic architecture. The Dutch Quarter is particularly enchanting, with its red-brick buildings adorned in holiday lights and wreaths. Market stalls offer delicious German holiday foods, mulled wine, and unique gifts, while carolers and musicians add a festive soundtrack to the scene. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully illuminated Sanssouci Palace gardens, enjoying a regal touch to their holiday celebrations. Together, Genthin and Potsdam provide a delightful contrast: one offering tranquil charm, the other festive grandeur, each capturing the essence of Christmas in their own way.

Berlin at Christmas is a vibrant, festive wonderland, where the city’s dynamic energy blends beautifully with traditional holiday charm. Christmas markets pop up across the city, from the iconic Gendarmenmarkt to the bustling Alexanderplatz, each offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions. Stalls are filled with seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and Berlin’s famous currywurst, along with mulled wine to warm up chilly hands. The Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church market, set against the historic church ruins, is particularly atmospheric, with its shimmering lights and cozy stalls. Berliners and visitors alike skate on ice rinks, browse for handmade crafts, and enjoy holiday performances by carolers and street musicians. The city’s grand boulevards, like Unter den Linden and Kurfürstendamm, sparkle with lights and decorations, creating a magical ambiance as snow dusts the streets. Berlin’s mix of history, tradition, and modern excitement makes it an unforgettable place to celebrate Christmas, blending old-world charm with urban festivity in a way that’s uniquely captivating.

One final Breakfast on board before Disembarking by 9:00a

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